OSWEGO COUNTY – The newly-accredited Oswego County Health Department welcomes individuals and families of all ages to join them in celebrating National Public Health Week, Monday, April 6 through Sunday, April 12!
The 2026 theme, “Ready. Set. Action!” invites people to learn how public health has improved their lives and communities, and to honor those who advocate for good health for all.
The health department hosts a variety of free events promoting health, safety and wellness. Unless otherwise noted, all events take place at the health department, 70 Bunner St., Oswego.
“National Public Health Week celebrates the impact of public health and recognizes the important role it has in safeguarding our communities,” said Oswego County Public Health Director Vera Dunsmoor. “Public health initiatives help prevent disease and promote good health for all residents. These events will give people the knowledge and resources they need to be proactive about their health and well-being.”
Monday, April 6:
The week begins with a blood drive and mammogram event. Residents can make an appointment to get a breast cancer screening from the Upstate University Hospital Mammography Van between 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The van is equipped with a state-of-the-art 3D digital mammogram system, private exam room, dressing rooms and a waiting room. Those aged 40 or older, who have not had a mammogram in the past 12 months and are not experiencing breast-related health concerns are eligible for an appointment.
Also that day, the American Red Cross hosts a blood drive for residents from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Pre-registration is required for both mammograms and blood donations. For more information or to schedule a mammogram, call the Wellspring Breast Care Center at 315-464-2588 or go to https://www.upstate.edu/mobile-mammography/. To register for the blood drive, go to https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-drive.
Tuesday, April 7:
Make sure you and your family are prepared for an emergency by attending a Citizen’s Preparedness class from 1 to 3 p.m. Attendees will learn how to prepare for any type of disaster, how to respond to and quickly recover from emergencies, how to develop an emergency plan, and what supplies to include in a disaster supplies kit.
Later that day, the Oswego County Office for the Aging (OFA) hosts a presentation to educate people about the various programs and services it offers. It runs from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, April 8:
A Poison Prevention Education program runs from 1 to 2 p.m. led by Upstate University Hospital’s Poison Prevention Team through the Upstate New York Poison Center. Topics include how to reduce poisoning, safe medicine use, household hazards and emergency response. Details on current poison trends will also be shared, such as new substance exposures and seasonal risks.
Immediately following, residents aged 18 and over can also attend a Naloxone (Narcan) training from 2 to 3 p.m. Participants will receive a free Naloxone kit upon completion of the training.
Thursday, April 9:
Learn how to take charge of your brain health as the Alzheimer’s Association presents a “Building Brain-Healthy Habits” program. It includes research-based guidance on brain health and the importance of protecting the brain at all ages. Attendees will learn healthy habits, such as exercise and nutrition, and build a personalized action plan. There will be two sessions: the first from 1 to 2 p.m. and another from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Following the second session, stick around for the OFA’s program about caregiver services and senior social isolation from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Friday, April 10:
The week’s events wrap up with the Mental Health Art Show, which runs from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Art Scene at CNY Arts Center, 121 Cayuga St., Fulton. This year’s theme, “A Quiet Moment: A Break from the Chaos,” invites artists to reflect on what brings them peace during life’s challenges. Expressing their personal experiences with mental health and resilience through art helps to spark meaningful conversations across generations.
The show features artwork from residents aged 12 and older, while mental health-related organizations will be at-hand to provide information about community resources and “The Goodnight Ladies Singalong Band” performs live music.
Please note that people can still submit artwork until Friday, March 27. For details, go to https://health.oswegocountyny.gov/mental_health_art_show.php.
For more information about National Public Health Week events, contact Matthew Conklin at 315-349-3497 or email [email protected].
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